TD backs calls to make upskirting a criminal offence in Ireland

Fianna Fáil’s Fiona O’Loughlin has backed calls from the CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre to make upskirting a criminal offence in Ireland.

‘Upskirting’, taking an unsolicited photo or video up someone’s skirt, is now an offence in England and Wales, with the Voyeurism (Offences) (No. 2) Bill gaining Royal Assent on 12 February. Those convicted face up to two years in jail and potentially being put on the sex offenders register.

The CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has called for the introduction of similar legislation in Ireland.

Noeline Blackwell says it is ‘really difficult’ for the police to find a way to prosecute or to hold anyone to account.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Equality, Immigration and Integration Fiona O’Loughlin said she ‘fully supports’ calls from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre for Ireland to adopt legislation to reflect the changing nature of technology.

“Let there be no doubt about it, upskirting is a form of sexual assault, and the victims are violated in a terrible way with the hurt further compounded if the image is circulated…Offenders need to know that there are serious consequences to this deviant behaviour. As legislators we need to send a clear message that this will not be accepted”.

-Fiona O’Loughlin TD

The Kildare South TD said she will be seeking a meeting with Noeline Blackwell and the Rape Crisis Centre in order to discuss how interested parties ‘can work together and proceed with this much needed legislation’.

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